Thursday, December 20, 2012

Canine UTI: A Serious Health Problem in Dogs

By Geraldine Dimarco


Urinary tract infection (UTI) is not only common in humans. It is common in dogs, too. This is most common in female dogs because of their short urethra, but UTI in male dogs is also probable, although rarely. In its early stages of development, UTI in dogs may not necessarily be harmful and may not exhibit obvious signs. In addition, urinary tract infection in some dogs may resolve itself within a span of time even without medical intervention. But if UTI in dogs is not treated for a long period of time, it may cause further infection and damage to the dog?s urinary system.

Early detection of canine UTI is possible. All you need to do is observe the dog?s behavior and urinating habits. An irregularity of his behavior and urinating habits could be a sign of dog UTI. Other initial symptoms of canine UTI include the following: ? Bloody urine ? Pus in the urine ? A foul smell in the urine ? Cloudy urine ? Crystals or stones in the urine ? Fever ? Listlessness and lethargy ? Frequent licking of the genital area. This act could signal pain in the dog?s genital area. ? Incontinence or the inability to control urine ? Frequent and excessive urination ? Straining and yelping in pain while urinating ? Making an effort to urinate but producing none or little urine ? Urinating in inappropriate areas ? Tenderness of the lower area of the stomach

The following are signs of female puppy UTI: 1. Frequent urination. A female puppy suffering from UTI may tend to urinate more often. This constant urination may be caused by an inflammation in its bladder. If inflammation has worsened, this frequent urination may lead to incontinence or the inability for the puppy to control the flow of its urine. 2. In contrast to frequent urination, a puppy with UTI may urinate less than usual. This condition could be caused by a blockage in the female puppy?s urethra or bladder. The blockage may be caused by the formation of stones or plugs. Although blockage is most common in male puppies, it could also happen in females. If left untreated, a complete blockage may occur and put the puppy?s life in extreme danger. 3. Excessive thirst. Female puppies with UTI may also tend to drink more water. This increase in thirst may be a sign of dehydration which may be caused by constant urination or excessive excretion of liquid from its body. 4. Bloody urine. In its advanced stage, UTI in a female puppy may result to bloody urine. This can be extremely painful to the puppy. 5. Straining to urinate. The puppy may strain to urinate but produce only trickles of urine. The puppy may also whimper when trying to urinate because of the pain that goes along with the process. 6. Lethargy. If you notice that your puppy is getting lethargic more often, or is feverish, chances are it may be suffering from female puppy UTI in its advanced stage. Treatment is a must in this condition.

Female puppy UTI could cause a lot of discomfort to the puppy. It is important that as a dog owner, you take the necessary precautions to keep your puppy free from infection. Female puppies are especially prone to UTI, so you must see to it that you give it proper care daily. Giving it enough amount of clean water to drink everyday and washing it regularly would help. Likewise, you may give it a dose of homeopathic remedy to help keep its immune system strong to fight against infections. Most importantly, bring it to the vet immediately when you suspect it is suffering from any of the symptoms of female puppy UTI.

Urinary tract infection in dogs can cause a lot of discomfort to the dog. As an owner, it pays when you have an understanding of how this condition happens, as well as how to prevent and treat it. As with other disorders, it is always wise to seek the help of the vet when any of the symptoms arise.




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